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Archived Documents of J. Sterling Morton

Nebraska Historic Figure: J. Sterling Morton (1832-1902), a notable politician in Nebraska, had a dual tenure in the territorial legislature, and also served as territorial secretary. Additional information can be found at http://www.worldcat.org/title/j-sterling-morton-papers/oclc/2206795.

Archive of Documents Belonging to J. Sterling Morton
Archive of Documents Belonging to J. Sterling Morton

Archived Documents of J. Sterling Morton

J. Sterling Morton, an American politician, journalist, and horticulturist, is best known for founding Arbor Day, a holiday dedicated to tree planting and environmental stewardship. Born in 1832, Morton served as territorial secretary from 1858 to 1861, but it was his later achievements that truly cemented his place in history.

Morton's key achievement was promoting tree planting as a civic responsibility, which culminated in the establishment of Arbor Day in Nebraska in 1872. This day encouraged communities to plant and care for trees, highlighting the importance of trees to the environment and agriculture. The holiday, initially a local celebration, grew into a widely observed national and international event, serving as Morton's lasting legacy in promoting conservation and natural resource management.

Morton's influence extended beyond Nebraska when he served as the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Grover Cleveland from 1893 to 1897. During this time, he further amplified his impact on conservation and agricultural policies.

For researchers interested in learning more about Morton's life and career, the J-Sterling Morton Papers are a significant resource. Housed at the Nebraska State Historical Society, this collection contains 78 reels of materials and offers insights into Morton's life, including his time as territorial governor of Nebraska on two occasions, his service in the Nebraska territorial legislature, and his role in establishing Arbor Day.

A 40-page guide is available for the J-Sterling Morton Papers, providing a comprehensive overview of the materials contained within. The collection, known as the J-Sterling Morton Papers, has an OCLC number of 2206795 and is accessible through the Nebraska Historical Society.

Morton was also known for his promotion of tree planting on the prairies, an initiative that reflected his deep commitment to environmental conservation. His efforts led to the State Board of Agriculture establishing Arbor Day in 1872, a testament to his enduring impact on the state of Nebraska and beyond.

In summary, J. Sterling Morton's legacy lies in his creation of Arbor Day and his dedication to environmental conservation. His life and work continue to inspire researchers and conservationists alike, with the J-Sterling Morton Papers serving as a valuable resource for those wishing to delve deeper into his life and accomplishments. For more information about the J-Sterling Morton Papers, visit http://www.worldcat.org/title/j-sterling-morton-papers/oclc/2206795.

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